I, JULIE BISHOP, Minister for Education, Science and Training, make these Guidelines under section 238‑10 of the Higher Education Support Act 2003.
Dated 10th November 2006.
JULIE BISHOP
Minister for Education, Science and Training
1 CITATION
These Guidelines may be cited as the Other Grants Guidelines 2006.
2 AUTHORITY
These Guidelines are made under section 238‑10 of the Higher Education Support Act 2003 for the purposes of Part 2‑3 of the Act.
3 DATE OF EFFECT
These Guidelines take effect on the day after they are registered on the Federal Register of Legislative Instruments.
4 REVOCATION
The Other Grants Guidelines, dated 13 August 2004, are revoked.
5 TRANSITIONAL ARRANGEMENTS
(1) The revocation of the Other Grants Guidelines, dated 13 August 2004, does not affect the validity of a payment or decision made under those guidelines.
(2) A decision made under those guidelines is taken to continue to have effect as if it were made under these Guidelines.
The purpose of these Guidelines is to provide for Other Grants under Part 2-3 of the Higher Education Support Act 2003 (the Act).
i.ii INTERPRETATION
Unless the contrary intention appears, the terms within the Other Grants Guidelines have the same meaning as in the Act.
The term “programme” in these Guidelines is to be taken as synonymous with the term “program” in Part 2-3 of the Act.
The following terms are defined specifically for these Guidelines:
Access In respect of the programmes in Chapter 1, access means commencing higher education students. The access rate for a particular group of students is that group’s percentage share of all commencing domestic higher education students.
ACGR Australian Competitive Grants Register
APA Australian Postgraduate Award
APA(I) Australian Postgraduate Award (Industry)
ASCED Australian Standard Classification of Education
DEST means the Australian Government Department of Education, Science and Training
HDR Higher Degree Research
HEP Higher Education Provider
HERDC Higher Education Research Data Collection
HESDC Higher Education Student Data Collection
IGS Institutional Grants Scheme
Participation In respect of the programmes in Chapter 1, participation means total higher education enrolments. The participation rate for a particular group of students is that group’s percentage share of all domestic higher education enrolments.
Retention In respect of the programmes in Chapter 1, retention means the number of students who re-enrol at a higher education provider in a given year, as a proportion of the students who were enrolled in the previous year, less those who completed their course. It provides a broad measure of retention (i.e. an Apparent Retention Rate) as it does not count as retained those who defer study or transfer successfully to another institution.
RIBG Research Infrastructure Block Grants
RTS Research Training Scheme
RPF Regional Protection Fund
Success In respect of the programmes in Chapter 1, and defined as the student progress rate (SPR), success means the proportion of units passed within a year compared with the total units enrolled. The Success indicator shows the ratio of the SPR for higher education students from a particular equity group to the SPR for all other domestic students. The Success indicator relates to the previous year.
The Act means the Higher Education Support Act 2003
CHAPTER 1 GRANTS TO PROMOTE EQUALITY OF OPPORTUNITY IN HIGHER EDUCATION
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Purpose
1.1.1 The purpose of this chapter is to specify programmes in accordance with subsection 41-15(1) of the Act for the purpose of promoting equality of opportunity in higher education in accordance with item 1 of subsection 41-10(1) of the Act and to specify matters listed in subsection 41-15(2) of the Act.
1.5 Description of Programmes under this Chapter
1.5.1 Programmes in this chapter aim to assist with overcoming barriers to access and participation in higher education, particularly relating to Indigenous background, low socio-economic status, rural and isolated background, disability, non-English speaking background and gender.
1.10 Eligible Providers
1.10.1 In accordance with section 41-10 of the Act, higher education providers listed in Table A of the Act are eligible to receive grants under the equity programmes specified in this chapter subject to any extra conditions of eligibility specified under this chapter.
INDIGENOUS SUPPORT PROGRAMME
1.15 Programme Objectives
1.15.1 The Indigenous Support Programme aims to assist eligible higher education providers meet the special needs of Indigenous Australian students and to advance the goals of the National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Education Policy.
1.15.5 Grants under the Indigenous Support Programme assist with Indigenous support activities.
1.20 Extra Conditions of Eligibility
1.20.1 To be eligible to receive Indigenous Support Programme grants in any one year, Table A providers must demonstrate to DEST that they meet all of the following criteria:
The provider has implemented strategies for improving access, participation, retention and success of Indigenous Australian students.
Participation of Indigenous people in the provider’s decision-making processes; and
The provider has an Indigenous employment strategy.
1.25 Total Programme Funds and Indexation
1.25.1 The total grants to be allocated under the Indigenous Support Programme will be $26,531,000 in 2005. The total amount to be allocated under the Indigenous Support Programme in subsequent years will be indexed in accordance with Division 198 of Part 5-6 of the Act, as in force from time to time.
1.25.5 Grants under the Indigenous Support Programme are in respect of a year.
1.30 Payment to Higher Education Providers
1.30.1 In accordance with section 164-5 of the Act, grant amounts will be paid in such a way as the Minister determines, and at such times as the Secretary determines.
1.35 Reporting by Higher Education Providers
Higher education providers who receive grants under the Indigenous Support Programme in respect of a year are required to provide DEST in the following year with a report on the expenditure of the grant amount including the amount provided to an Indigenous support/education centre, where one exists at the provider. For the convenience of providers, the expenditure report should be included in the Indigenous Education Statement lodged as part of the Institutional Assessment Framework information collection.
HIGHER EDUCATION EQUITY SUPPORT PROGRAMME
1.40 Programme Description
1.40.1 The Higher Education Equity Support Programme provides funding to eligible higher education providers to undertake activities that assist in removing barriers to access for disadvantaged students and promote equality of opportunity in higher education.
1.40.5 In particular, the Higher Education Equity Support Programme aims to increase the access and participation in higher education of students from low socio-economic/low income backgrounds, students from rural and isolated areas, students with a disability and students from non-English speaking backgrounds. The Higher Education Equity Support Programme also aims to assist in overcoming educational disadvantage associated with gender.
1.45 Extra Conditions of Eligibility
1.45.1 To be eligible to receive Higher Education Equity Support Programme funds in any one year, eligible providers must provide a statement demonstrating to the satisfaction of DEST that they are undertaking activities which assist disadvantaged students, consistent with the aims of the programme as set out in paragraph 1.40.5 of these guidelines, and meet all of the following criteria:
(a) Providers run outreach programmes to attract disadvantaged students to higher education;
(b) Providers offer specialised support for disadvantaged students to assist their progression through higher education;
(c) Providers administer application and selection processes for the Commonwealth Learning Scholarships Programme; and
(d) Providers establish an institutional equity scholarship programme to complement the Commonwealth Learning Scholarships Programme.
1.50 Total Programme Funds for 2005 and Indexation for Subsequent Years
1.50.1 The total grant amount available for the Higher Education Equity Support Programme in 2005 will be $10,823,000. This amount will be indexed for subsequent years in accordance with Division 198 of Part 5-6 of the Act as in force from time to time.
1.50.5 Grants made under the Higher Education Equity Support Programme are in respect of a calendar year.
1.55 How Allocation of Funds is to be Determined
1.55.1 The amount of a grant payable to a provider for a calendar year is a proportion of the total grant amount available in that year for the Higher Education Equity Support Programme, calculated using the following formula:
Grant = (A / C) x E + (B / D) x E
Where:
A is the number of domestic students from low socio-economic backgrounds enrolled at a higher education provider, multiplied by the retention and success ratios for this group at the higher education provider.
B is the number of domestic low socio-economic students from rural and isolated areas enrolled at the higher education provider, multiplied by the retention and success ratios for this group at the higher provider.
C is the total number of domestic low socio-economic students enrolled at all eligible higher education providers, multiplied by the success and retention ratios for this group.
D is the total number of low socio-economic students from rural and isolated areas enrolled at all eligible higher education providers, multiplied by the success and retention ratios for this group.
E is 50% of the total funding pool for the Higher Education Equity Support Programme.
1.60 Conditions of Grant
1.60.1 Grant funds must be spent on equity initiatives which target disadvantaged students and encourage sustainable improvements in access, participation, retention and success of higher education for those students. The initiatives should target equity groups consistent with the aims of the Higher Education Equity Support Programme, as outlined in paragraph 1.40.5 of these guidelines, and consistent with the higher education provider’s equity objectives. Higher education providers may tailor their programmes to address specific disadvantage, as appropriate to the demographics of their student population and catchment area.
HIGHER EDUCATION DISABILITY SUPPORT PROGRAMME
1.65 Programme Description
1.65.1 The Higher Education Disability Support Programme consists of three components:
Additional Support for Students with Disabilities;
Regional Disability Liaison Officers (RDLO); and
Performance-based disability support funding.
1.70 Funding
1.70.1 The total grant amount available for the Higher Education Disability Support Programme in 2005 will be $6,479,000. This amount will be indexed for subsequent years in accordance with Division 198 of Part 5–6 of the Act as in force from time to time.
1.75 Additional Support for Students with Disabilities
1.75.1 The objectives of the Additional Support for Students with Disabilities component of the Higher Education Disability Support Programme are to:
Provide funding support to eligible higher education providers to assist with high costs incurred in providing educational support and/or equipment to students with disabilities with high cost needs; and
Encourage efficient and effective use of equipment and resources to support students with disabilities.
1.75.5 How grant amounts are to be determined
1.75.5.1 The amount of grant paid to each higher education provider will be determined by adding together the proportion of the amount claimed that is payable, minus the threshold for eligible expenditure.
1.75.5.5 Grants will be allocated annually on application by the higher education provider using the claim form which is available at: www.dest.gov.au/highered/programmes/assd.htm. Completed claims must be signed off as a true and accurate record at senior level within the higher education provider.
1.75.5.10 Eligible higher education providers may claim for expenditure incurred for domestic students who are enrolled with the higher education provider, who have been assessed by the higher education provider as having a disability and who have received educational support related to that disability. Higher education providers may not claim for the costs of infrastructure, salaries or other costs relating to the ongoing operation of general disability support services or for the provision of personal care for students with disabilities.
1.75.5.15 For educational support, a proportion of costs over the minimum threshold level per student will be calculated and paid. The threshold level and the proportion of costs to be reimbursed above the threshold level will be determined after all claims have been received and analysed. The threshold will be no less than $500 per year but may be higher than $500.
1.75.5.20 For equipment items a proportion of actual cost will be paid. The proportion will be determined after all claims have been received and analysed.
1.75.10 Extra Conditions of Grant
1.75.10.1 Before providing an educational support service or equipment item to a student, higher education providers must obtain evidence of the student’s disability and support need and must undertake a needs assessment process, in accordance with the higher education provider’s usual procedures.
1.75.10.5 Higher education providers must maintain records of the evidence and assessment process, including details of the medical, specialist or other advice obtained in verifying disability and support needs.
1.75.10.10 Higher education providers must publish their eligibility assessment procedures in a format that is readily available and accessible to people with disabilities.
1.80 Regional Disability Liaison Officers
1.80.1 The objectives of the Regional Disability Liaison Officer component of the Higher Education Disability Support Programme are to:
Improve transitions for people with a disability between schools, post- secondary education and training and employment;
increase awareness of post-school options, supports and services available for people with a disability, their families, support networks and relevant stakeholders;
Increase the successful participation of students with disabilities in post-secondary education by facilitating the coordination of services for people with a disability in education and training within a region; and
Improve linkages between schools, vocational education and training (VET) providers, higher education providers and providers of disability programmes and assistance, such as those funded by the Commonwealth Department of Family and Community Services.
1.80.5 Programme Description
1.80.5.1 Funds are provided to eligible higher education providers to engage a Regional Disability Liaison Officer, as determined by the Minister.
1.80.5.5 The Regional Disability Liaison Officer coordinates with education and training providers and disability services providers in a given region to facilitate better information and support services for students with a disability and in order to assist them to access the most appropriate post-school education and training.
1.85 Performance-Based Disability Support Funding
1.85.1 The objective of the performance-based disability support funding component of the Higher Education Disability Support Programme is to encourage higher education providers to implement strategies to attract and support students with disabilities.
1.85.5 The performance-based component of funding comprises that amount of funding which remains after allocations for the Additional Support for Students with Disabilities component and the Regional Disability Liaison Officer component have been made to eligible providers. Remaining funds will be distributed according to the funding formula:
Grant = (A / B) x C
Where:
A is the number of domestic students with disabilities enrolled at the
Higher education provider multiplied by the success and retention ratios for this group (see Chapter i, section i.ii of these guidelines for a definition of success and retention ratios).
B is the total number of domestic students with disabilities enrolled at all eligible higher education providers, multiplied by the success and retention ratios.
C is the total funding pool for the Higher Education Disability Support Programme less the amount allocated to the Additional Support for Students with Disabilities and Regional Disability Liaison Officer Components.
CHAPTER 2 GRANTS TO FOSTER WORKPLACE PRODUCTIVITY IN HIGHER EDUCATION
WORKPLACE PRODUCTIVITY PROGRAMME
2.1 Purpose
2.1.1 The purpose of this chapter is to specify the Workplace Productivity Programme (“WPP”) as a programme, beginning in 2006, from which grants to foster workplace reform in higher education may be paid, in accordance with subsection 41-15 (1) of the Act, and to specify some of the matters listed in paragraphs 41-15(2)(a) to (f) of the Act.
2.5 Programme Objective
2.5.1 The objective of WPP is to encourage higher education providers to progress workplace reform that strengthens their capability to manage and implement workplace change. The WPP is intended to encourage flexible working arrangements, direct relationships between employers and employees and improved productivity and performance.
2.10 Total Programme Funds and Allocation
In this chapter, the total amount of funds available for allocation under WPP in any particular year is referred to as the “Allocation”, calculated in accordance with paragraph 2.10.2.
The Allocation will be $27.2 million in 2006, $27.8 million in 2007 and $28.3 million in 2008, plus:
Some or all of the Allocation for the immediately preceding year that was not used in that year, subject to the Act and any relevant approvals of the Minister and the Prime Minister; and
Indexation calculated in accordance with Part 5-6 of the Act.
2.15 Allocation of Grants
2.15.1 In each year the Allocation will be available for:
Meeting existing WPP funding commitments for projects continuing in the year;
Grants in response to submissions invited by the Department (a maximum of two rounds will be conducted per year); and
grants in response to proposals outside the submission-based rounds referred to in 2.15.1(b) that address specific programme priorities set by the Minister from time to time.
2.15.2 Grants will be made only in response to proposals that are consistent with the objective of the programme and strategically address the programme priorities.
2.15.5 WPP grants may be made in respect of a project or in respect of a year.
2.15.10 Unsuccessful applicants may reapply in subsequent rounds.
2.15.15 All WPP Grants will be subject to the Minister’s approval (under section 41-20 of the Act), and the Minister’s determination in writing of:
The amount of the grant (under sub-section 41-30(b) of the Act); and
The conditions of the grant (under sub-paragraph 41-25(b)(i) of the Act).
2.20 Organisations That Are Eligible For WPP Grants
2.20.1 Only Table A providers are eligible for WPP grants.
2.25 Application Process
2.25.1. Applications must be submitted on the WPP application form available through the Department’s website.
CHAPTER 3 GRANTS TO ENHANCE LEARNING AND TEACHING IN HIGHER EDUCATION
LEARNING AND TEACHING PERFORMANCE FUND
3.1 Purpose
3.1.1 The purpose of this chapter is to establish the Learning and Teaching Performance Fund as a programme for the purposes of subsection 41-15(1) of the Act and to specify the matters listed in subsection 41-15(2) of the Act.
3.5 Programme Objectives
3.5.1 The objective of the Learning and Teaching Performance Fund is to reward those higher education providers that best demonstrate excellence in learning and teaching.
3.10 Eligibility
3.10.1 The higher education providers specified in item 3 of section 41-10 of the Act are eligible for funding under the Learning and Teaching Performance Fund.
3.15 Amount spent on the Programme in a particular year
3.15.1 Funding for the Learning and Teaching Performance Fund is provided under Part 2-3 of the Higher Education Support Act 2003. Subject to parliamentary disallowance under Section 41- 50 of the Act, the level of funding provided is $54.4 million in 2006, $81.7 million in 2007 and $109.0 million in 2008. The allocations for 2007 and 2008 will be indexed in accordance with Part 5-6 of the Act, as in force from time to time.
3.20 Allocation Process
3.20.1 During 2005, 2006 and 2007, respectively, providers will be notified of the process to be applied for working out the distribution of the Fund in the following year established on an annual basis.
3.25 Payment to Higher Education Providers
3.25.1 In accordance with section 164-5 of the Act, amounts will be paid in such a way as the Minister determines, and at such times as the Secretary determines.
CHAPTER 4 GRANTS TO SUPPORT NATIONAL INSTITUTES SPECIFIED IN THE OTHER GRANTS GUIDELINES FOR THE PURPOSES OF THIS ITEM
NATIONAL INSTITUTES PROGRAMME
4.1 Purpose
4.1.1 The purpose of this chapter is to specify the national institutes which may be supported by grants under item 4 of the table in subsection 41-10(1) of the Act.
4.5 National Institutes (section 41-10 item 4)
4.5.1 The following national institutes are specified under item 4 of the table in subsection 41-10(1) of the Act (the Other Grants):
The Australian National University;
The Australian Maritime College; and
Batchelor Institute of Indigenous Tertiary Education.
CHAPTER 5 GRANTS TO SUPPORT THE CAPITAL DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS OF HIGHER EDUCATION PROVIDERS
CAPITAL DEVELOPMENT POOL PROGRAMME
5.1 Purpose
5.1 The purpose of these guidelines is to specify the Capital Development Pool (CDP) programme as a programme for the purposes of Part 2-3 of the Act.
5.5 Programme Objectives
5.5.1 Grants under the CDP programme are to support capital development projects of eligible higher education providers, as specified in item 5 of the table in section 41-10(1) of the Act. The focus of the programme is to encourage:
Development of, or on, new campuses in suburban growth corridors and regional centres. Priority will be given to projects which support greater collaboration:
Between higher education providers;
Between higher education providers and vocational and technical education providers; or
Between higher education providers, other organisations and the private sector;
Capital developments that:
Assist higher education providers to establish or expand provision of courses identified by the government as discipline areas of national importance;
Information and communications technology infrastructure projects which improve the cost-effectiveness and quality of educational delivery, for example:
By improving the efficiency of the higher education provider’s infrastructure, or
By providing access to education and research networks;
The rebuilding or restoration of campus facilities in circumstances which are, in the view of the Minister special and extraordinary; and
Capital developments which the Minister considers are priorities for particular higher education providers.
CHAPTER 6 GRANTS TO ASSIST WITH THE COST OF HIGHER EDUCATION PROVIDERS’ SUPERANNUATION LIABILITIES
6.1 Purpose
6.1.1 The purpose of these guidelines is to specify:
(a) in accordance with subsection 41-15(1) of the Act the Higher Education Superannuation Programme (the “Programme”) as a programme under which grants can be paid for the purpose of assisting with the cost of Table A providers’ superannuation liabilities as specified in item 6 of the table in subsection 41-10(1) of the Act; and
(b) under subsection 41-15(2) of the Act, some other matters relevant to the Programme.
6.10 Programme Objectives
6.10.1 The objective of the Higher Education Superannuation Programme is to provide Commonwealth assistance to Table A providers to meet certain superannuation expenses.
6.10.2 The Commonwealth meets expenses incurred by Table A providers that have staff who are members in relevant superannuation schemes.
6.15 Allocation of Grants
6.15.1 Grants made under the Programme may cover:
(a) supplementation of ongoing expenses; and/or
(b) paying out determined liabilities.
6.15.2 The Minister may approve Administrative Information for Providers which sets out the procedures by which providers apply for funds and by which the funds are allocated. This document may be obtained through the Department's web site www.dest.gov.au.
6.20 Grant approval
6.20.1 Grants will be approved by the Minister under section 41-20 of the Act.
6.25 Grant Amounts
6.25.1 The Programme grant amounts will be determined in writing by the Minister under paragraph 41-30(b) of the Act.
6.30 Conditions that Apply to Grants
The Minister may determine conditions that apply to grants under subparagraph 41-25(b)(i) of the Act.
6.35 Extra Conditions of Eligibility for Grants
6.35.1 To receive a grant for superannuation liabilities under the Programme, a provider must have staff who are members of one of the following emerging cost schemes:
New South Wales State Superannuation Fund
New South Wales State Authorities Superannuation Scheme
New South Wales State Public Service Superannuation Fund
Victorian State Superannuation Fund – Revised Scheme
Victorian State Superannuation Fund – New Scheme
Western Australian Government Employees Superannuation Scheme
South Australian Superannuation Fund
Tasmanian Retirement Benefits Fund
Catholic Superannuation Fund
Commonwealth Superannuation Scheme
Public Sector Superannuation Scheme
6.40 Indexation
6.40.1 The total amount allocated to the Programme shall be indexed in accordance with Division 198 of Part 5-6 of the Act, as in force from time to time.
CHAPTER 7 GRANTS TO SUPPORT RESEARCH BY, AND THE RESEARCH CAPABILITY OF, HIGHER EDUCATION PROVIDERS
INTRODUCTION
7.1 Purpose
7.1.1 The purpose of these guidelines is to specify:
(a) In accordance with subsection 41-15(1) of the Act:
(i) The Research Infrastructure Block Grants (RIBG) Scheme; and
(ii) The Institutional Grants Scheme (IGS) as programmes under which grants can be paid for the purpose of supporting higher education providers’ research and research training activities; and
(b) Under subsection 41-15(2) of the Act, some other matters relevant to the RIBG Scheme and the IGS.
RESEARCH INFRASTRUCTURE BLOCK GRANTS (RIBG) SCHEME
7.10 RIBG Scheme Description
7.10.1 The RIBG Scheme provides block grants, on a calendar year basis, to eligible higher education providers to enhance the development and maintenance of research infrastructure.
7.15 RIBG Scheme Objectives
7.15.1 The objectives of the RIBG Scheme are to:
enhance the development and maintenance of research infrastructure in higher education providers for the support of high quality research in all disciplines;
meet project-related infrastructure costs associated with Australian Competitive Grants;
remedy deficiencies in current research infrastructure; and
ensure that areas of recognised research potential, in which higher education providers have taken steps to initiate high quality research activity, have access to the support necessary for development.
7.20 Conditions that Apply to RIBG Scheme Grants
7.20.1 Conditions that apply to RIBG Scheme grants will be determined in writing by the Minister, or his or her delegate, under subparagraph 41-25(b)(i) of the Act.
7.25 RIBG Scheme Grant Amounts
7.25.1 The RIBG Scheme grant amounts will be determined in writing by the Minister, or his or her delegate, under paragraph 41-30(b) of the Act.
INSTITUTIONAL GRANTS SCHEME (IGS)
7.35 IGS Description
7.35.1 The IGS provides block grants, on a calendar year basis, to eligible higher education providers to support research and research training activities. Higher education providers have discretion in the way they spend their IGS grant.
7.40 IGS Objectives
7.40.1 The purpose of the IGS is to maintain and strengthen Australia’s knowledge base and research capabilities by developing an effective research and research training system in the higher education sector.
7.40.5 Specifically, the IGS aims to:
support the general fabric of the research and research training activities of higher education providers;
allow higher education providers to manage their own research activities and set their own priorities;
assist higher education providers to respond flexibly to their research environment in accordance with their own strategies; and
Enhance support for areas of research strength.
7.45 Conditions that Apply to IGS Grants
7.45.1 Conditions that apply to IGS grants will be determined in writing by the Minister, or his or her delegate, under subparagraph 41-25(b)(i) of the Act.
7.50 IGS Grant Amounts
7.50.1 The IGS grant amounts will be determined in writing by the Minister, or his or her delegate, under paragraph 41-30(b) of the Act.
CHAPTER 8 GRANTS TO SUPPORT THE TRAINING OF RESEARCH STUDENTS
INTRODUCTION
8.1 Purpose
8.1.1 The purpose of these guidelines is to specify:
In accordance with subsection 41-15(1) of the Act:
the Research Training Scheme (RTS) as a programme under which grants can be paid for the purpose of supporting the training of higher degree by research (HDR) students; and
the Regional Protection Scheme (RPS) as a programme under which grants can be paid for the purpose of protecting designated regional higher education providers from losses of income against their combined indexed 2001 RTS and Institutional Grants Scheme (IGS) grants (which are described in chapter 7 of these Guidelines); and
Under subsection 41-15(2) of the Act, some other matters relevant to RTS and RPS.
RESEARCH TRAINING SCHEME (RTS)
8.10 RTS Description
8.10.1 The RTS provides block grants, on a calendar year basis, to eligible higher education providers to support research training for students undertaking HDRs - Doctorate and Masters degrees by research - including coursework components of these degrees, provided that the coursework components do not exceed one third of the degree.
8.10.5 These students, referred to as ‘RTS students’, are exempt from payment of student contribution amounts and tuition fees for units undertaken as part of an HDR course of study.
8.15 RTS Objectives
8.15.1 The objectives of the RTS are to:
enhance the quality of research training provision in Australia;
improve the responsiveness of higher education providers to the needs of their research students;
encourage higher education providers to develop their own research training profiles;
ensure the relevance of research degree programmes to labour market requirements; and
Improve the efficiency and effectiveness of research training.
8.20 Conditions that Apply to RTS Grants
8.20.1 Conditions that apply to RTS grants will be determined in writing by the Minister, or his or her delegate, under subparagraph 41-25(b)(i) of the Act.
8.25 RTS Grant Amounts
8.25.1 The RTS grant amounts will be determined in writing by the Minister, or his or her delegate, under paragraph 41-30(b) of the Act.
REGIONAL PROTECTION SCHEME (RPS)
8.35 RPS Description
8.35.1 The RPS provides block grants, on a calendar year basis, to eligible designated higher education providers.
8.40 RPS Objectives
8.40.1 The objective of the RPS is to protect designated regional higher education providers from losses of income against their combined indexed 2001 RTS and IGS grants within funding available for the year.
8.50 Conditions that Apply to RPS Grants
8.50.1 Conditions that apply to RPS grants will be determined in writing by the Minister, or his or her delegate, under subparagraph 41-25(b)(i) of the Act.
8.55 Extra Conditions of Eligibility for RPS Grants
8.60.1 The RPS grant amounts will be determined in writing by the Minister, or his or her delegate, under paragraph 41-30(b) of the Act.
CHAPTER 9 GRANTS TO FOSTER COLLABORATION AND REFORM IN HIGHER EDUCATION
COLLABORATION AND STRUCTURAL REFORM FUND
9.1 Purpose
9.1.1 The purpose of this chapter is to specify the Collaboration and Structural Reform Fund (“CASR”) as a programme, beginning in 2005, from which grants to foster collaboration and reform in higher education may be paid, in accordance with subsection 41-15(1) of the Act, and to specify some of the matters listed in paragraphs 41-15(2)(a) to (f) of the Act.
9.5 Programme Objectives
9.5.1 The objective of CASR is to achieve better higher education outcomes in teaching, learning, research and innovation by promoting structural reform and collaboration in the sector.
9.5.5 Structural reform involves large scale change that aims to significantly improve performance and the achievement of outcomes at the level of individual institutions or the higher education system as a whole.
9.5.10 Collaboration can occur for a range of purposes and in a variety of ways including:
Among universities;
Between universities and other education and training providers;
Between universities and business and industry;
Between universities and their regional or local communities, and other organisations including local and state or territory governments.
9.10 Total Programme Funds and Allocation
9.10.1 In this chapter, the total amount of funds available for allocation under CASR in any particular year is referred to as the “Allocation”, calculated in accordance with paragraph 9.10.5.
9.10.5 The Allocation will be $18.920 million in 2006 and $11.143 million in 2007, plus:
Some or all of the Allocation for the immediately preceding year that was not used in that year, subject to the Act and any relevant approvals of the Minister and the Prime Minister; and
Indexation calculated in accordance with Part 5-6 of the Act.
9.15 Allocation of Grants
9.15.1 In each year the Allocation will be available for:
Meeting existing CASR funding commitments for the year;
Grants in response to proposals invited by the Department (a maximum of two rounds will be conducted per year); and
Grants in response to proposals outside the submission-based rounds referred to in 9.15.1(b) that address specific priorities set by the Minister from time to time.
9.15.5 Grants will be made only in response to proposals that are consistent with the objectives of the programme and strategically address the programme priorities.
9.15.10 CASR grants may be made in respect of a project or in respect of a year.
9.15.15 All CASR Grants will be subject to the Minister’s approval (under section 41-20 of the Act), and the Minister’s determination in writing of:
The amount of the grant (under sub-section 41-30(b) of the Act); and
The conditions of the grant (under sub-paragraph 41-25(b)(i) of the Act).
9.20 Organisations that are eligible for CASR Grants
9.20.1 Table A Providers and the following bodies corporate are eligible for CASR grants:
Australian Vice-Chancellors’ Committee;
Business/Higher Education Round Table Limited;
General Sir John Monash Foundation;
Academy of the Social Sciences in Australia;
Australian Academy of the Humanities;
Australian Universities Quality Agency Limited;
The Australian Council for Educational Research Limited;
Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry;
Business Council of Australia;
Australian Industry Group;
Council for the Humanities, Arts and Social Sciences;
Gippsland Education Precinct Inc; and
TRISH MS Company Limited.
9.20.5 Other bodies corporate may apply for funding. If successful, payment of a grant will be subject to amendment of these Guidelines in accordance with the Act to include them in the list of eligible bodies corporate.
9.25 Application Process
9.25.1 Applications must be submitted on the CASR application form available through the Department’s website at www.dest.gov.au/casr
CHAPTER 10 GRANTS TO SUPPORT THE DEVELOPMENT OF SYSTEMIC INFRASTRUCTURE USED BY HIGHER EDUCATION PROVIDERS
SYSTEMIC INFRASTRUCTURE INITIATIVE
10.1 Purpose
10.1.1 The purpose of this chapter is to specify, in accordance with subsection 41-15(1) of the Act, the Systemic Infrastructure Initiative as a programme under which grants to support the development of systemic infrastructure used by eligible higher education providers may be paid and to specify the bodies corporate eligible for grants pursuant to item 10 of the table in subsection 41-10(1).
10.5 Programmes under which grants may be paid
10.5.1 In accordance with subsection 41-15(1) of the Act, the following are programmes under which grants may be paid:
The Systemic Infrastructure Initiative
10.10 Bodies corporate eligible for grants
10.10.1 In accordance with item 10 of the table in subsection 41-10(1) of the Act, the following bodies corporate are eligible for grants to support the development of systemic infrastructure used by higher education providers:
Bond University; and
The University of Notre Dame Australia.
CHAPTER 11 GRANTS FOR ACTIVITIES THAT:
(a) ASSURE AND ENHANCE THE QUALITY OF AUSTRALIA’S HIGHER EDUCATION SECTOR
11.1 Purpose
11.1.1 This chapter specifies bodies corporate eligible for grants under Item 11(a) of the table in subsection 41(10)1.
11.5 Bodies corporate eligible for grants
11.5.1 The following bodies corporate are eligible for grants under this Item:
The Carrick Institute for Learning and Teaching in Higher Education Limited (Carrick);
The Australian Universities Quality Agency (AUQA);
Graduate Careers Australia (GCA);
The Australian Council for Educational Research Limited (ACER); and
The Australian Vice-Chancellors’ Committee (AVCC).
11.5.5 The Minister will determine the conditions of grants to Carrick, AUQA, GCA, ACER and AVCC by Ministerial determination under s41-25(b)(i) of the Act.
11.10 Programmes under which grants are to be paid
11.10.1 The Carrick Institute for Learning and Teaching in Higher Education Limited (incorporating the Australian Awards for University Teaching) Programme.
11.10.5 In 2006, subject to appropriation, $25.883 million will be spent on The Carrick Institute for Learning and Teaching in Higher Education Limited (incorporating the Australian Awards for University Teaching).
11.10.10 The amount to be spent on the Carrick Institute for Learning and Teaching in Higher Education Limited (incorporating the Australian Awards for University Teaching) in 2007 and any later year specified in subsection 41-45(1) of the Act will be the amount specified in paragraph 11.10.5 for 2006, indexed using the method set out in Part 5-6 of the Act.
(b) FOSTER AN UNDERSTANDING OF THE IMPORTANCE OF, OR PROMOTE RESEARCH AND SCHOLARSHIP IN, SCIENCE, SOCIAL SCIENCE OR THE HUMANITIES IN AUSTRALIA
11.20 Purpose
11.20.1 The purpose of this Chapter is to specify the bodies corporate that are eligible for grants in accordance with subsection 41-10(1) of the Act, to specify the Learned Academies Programme and the Australian New Zealand Association for the Advancement of Science Youth Conference Grant Programme as programmes from which grants to foster understanding of the importance of, and provide research and scholarship in, science social science or humanities in Australia may be paid, and to specify the matters set out in subsection 41-15(2)(a) and (d) of the Act.
11.25 Bodies corporate eligible to receive grants
11.25.1 The following bodies corporate are eligible for grants under the Learned Academies Grant Programme:
The Australian and New Zealand Association for the Advancement of Science (ANZAAS);
The Australian Academy of Technological Sciences and Engineering;
The Australian Academy of Science;
The Australian Academy of the Humanities; and
The Academy of the Social Sciences in Australia.
11.25.2 The following bodies corporate are eligible for grants under the Australian New Zealand Association for the Advancement of Science Youth Conference Grant Programme (Grants-in-aid):
The Australian and New Zealand Association for the Advancement of Science (ANZAAS).
AUSTRALIAN AND NEW ZEALAND ASSOCIATION FOR THE ADVANCEMENT OF SCIENCE YOUTH CONFERENCE GRANT PROGRAMME
11.30 Purpose
11.30.1 The purpose of this part is to specify the Australian New Zealand Association for the Advancement of Science Youth Conference Grant Programme (“the ANZAAS programme”) as a programme under which grants to foster understanding of the importance of, and provides research and scholarship in, science social science or the humanities in Australia, and to specify matters set out in paragraphs 41-15(2)(a),(c),(d) and (f) of the Act.
11.35 Programme Objectives
11.35.1 Grants under the programme are provided to cover the costs of transportation and accommodation for approximately five students from each Australian State and Territory to attend the annual ANZAAS Youth Conference.
11.35.5 The aim of the programme is to provide promising young scientists with an opportunity to mix with peers and internationally acclaimed scientists.
11.35.10 The ANZAAS Youth Conference contributes to the broader aims of ANZAAS which are to:
Promote communication and interaction between scientists in different disciplines;
Foster public interest in science and technology, and awareness of their role in every day life; and
Encourage the curiosity of children about the natural and man made world around them.
11.40 Total Programme Grants and Indexation
11.40.1 The total grant amount to be allocated to ANZAAS for the purposes of supporting the Youth Conference in 2005 is $18,000. Subject to appropriation, this amount will be indexed in accordance with Division 198 of Part 5-6 of the Act, as in force from time to time.
11.40.2 The ANZAAS Youth Conference Grant Programme is funded on an annual, calendar year basis and payments are made in respect of a year.
LEARNED ACADEMIES GRANT PROGRAMME
11.45 Purpose
11.45.1 The purpose of this part is to specify the Learned Academies Grant Programme as a programme under which grants to foster understanding of the importance of, and provide research and scholarship in, science social science or humanities in Australia, and to specify the matters set out in subsection 41-15(2)(a) and (d) of the Act.
11.50 Programme Objectives
11.50.1 The objectives of the Learned Academies Grant Programme are to:
Assist in maintaining the Learned Academies, as independent organisations that promote and undertake research and scholarship in the natural and applied sciences, technological development and applied technology, the social sciences and the humanities;
Maintain the Learned Academies as focal points for contact with the communities represented by the Academies and as sources of advice for the Government relating to their fields of expertise; and
Assist in providing support for affiliations with appropriate international organisations.
11.55 Total Programme Funds and Indexation
11.55.1 Total funds available for the Learned Academies Grant Programme for 2005 are $1,946,000. Subject to appropriation, this amount will be indexed in accordance with Division 198 of Part 5-6 of the Act, as in force from time to time.
11.55.2 The Learned Academies Grant Programme is funded on an annual, calendar year basis, and grants are made in respect of a year.
(c) GRANTS FOR ACTIVITIES THAT SUPPORT OPEN ACCESS TO HIGHER EDUCATION ACROSS AUSTRALIA
11.60 Purpose
11.60.1 The purpose of this chapter is to specify:
The Open Learning Initiative as a programme from which grants for activities that support open access to higher education across Australia may be paid, in accordance with subsection 41-15 (1) of the Act;
Some of the matters listed in paragraphs 41-15(2)(a) to (f) of the Act;
The bodies corporate that are eligible for grants referred to in subparagraph 11.65.1; and
The method(s) by which grant amounts will be determined.
11.65 Bodies corporate which are eligible for a grant
11.65.1 Open Universities Australia Pty Limited [ABN 97 053 431 888] (“Open Universities Australia”) is an eligible body corporate for the purposes of item 11(c) of the table in subsection 41-10(1) of the Act.
11.70 Method by which the amount of grant is to be determined
11.70.1 The amount of a grant to Open Universities Australia in respect of the calendar year 2006 and any later year is calculated in the following way:
Grant payable = (A plus B) or C, whichever is the lower amount.
Where:
A = base grant amount, as specified in paragraph 11.70.2, subject to indexation under paragraph 11.75;
B = additional units grant amount, as specified in paragraph 11.70.2, subject to indexation under paragraph 11.75; and
C = $257,000, subject to indexation under paragraph 11.75.
11.70.2 The base grant amount and additional units grant amount vary according to the number of Open University Australia units for which a FEE-HELP debt was incurred in the year according to the following table:
Number of Open Universities Australia units for which a FEE-HELP debt was incurred
Base grant amount (for a grant in respect of 2006)
Additional units grant amount (for a grant in respect of 2006)<br> <br>(Applies to the number of units above the threshold for which a FEE-HELP debt was incurred)<br>
0 - 5,999
$98,908
$12.36 for each unit above 5,000
6,000 and 6,999
$111,273
$6.18 for each unit above 6,000
7,000 or more
$117,455
$2.48 for each unit above 7,000
11.75 Indexation of components of grant
11.75.1 The amounts represented by A, B and C in subparagraph 11.70.1 will be indexed each year after 2006 in accordance with the method of indexation set out Part 5-6 of the Act.